Delhi, a city steeped in history and vibrant culture, has a food scene as diverse as its society. From fine dining establishments to bustling street vendors, the capital caters for every taste. But beyond the known hotspots there are hidden treasures – modest restaurants tucked away in forgotten corners, serving culinary delights with a special appeal. Join us on this secret culinary adventure as we uncover some of Delhi’s hidden gems that curious gourmands must visit. So, ditch the usual guidebook and haunt. Here is a list of 10 hidden gems in Delhi that will tantalize your taste buds and take you on a delicious adventure:
Here are 10 Must-Visit Hidden Gems for Food Lovers in Delhi:
1. Lotan Ke Chole Kulche (Chawri Bazar):
Start your day with a hearty and historic breakfast at Lotan Ke Chole Kulche in Chawri Bazar. This beautiful stall, established in 1922, is a local favourite. The star attraction is chole, a spicy bean curry simmered with aromatic spices, served with kulchas (leavened flat bread). Its simplicity belies its depth of flavor, a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and slightly sweet notes. Get ready to jostle for space and enjoy the buzzing energy of Old Delhi.
What: Lotan Ke Chole Kulche
Where: 2363, Chatta Shahji, Chawri Bazar, New Delhi
When: 7:30 am – 10:30 am
2. Mizo Diner (Paharganj):
Located in the heart of Paharganj, amidst budget hotels and backpacker havens, lies Mizo Diner, a gem serving authentic Mizo cuisine. This hidden gem offers a unique culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Mizoram, a state bordering Myanmar. Don’t miss the pork dishes such as pork momos, Sauteed Pork, Smoked Pork, Pork Ribs, and tofu, a refreshing Burmese salad with sliced ​​vegetables and a light peanut sauce. The diner itself is a beautiful and artistic place with unique paintings and a warm atmosphere.
What: Mizo Diner
Where: 85, Humayunpur, Safdarjung, New Delhi
When: 12 noon – 11 pm
Cost: INR 600 for two (approx)
3. Sheeren Bhavan (Chitli Qabar):
For those with a sweet tooth, Sheeren Bhavan is a must visit. Located in the lesser-known neighborhood of Chitli Qabar, this traditional halwai (sweet shop) is famous for its unique and delicious varieties of halwa. From the classic gajar ka halwa (carrot pudding) to the unusual aloe vera halwa and white carrot halwa, Sheeren Bhavan offers a delightful exploration of Indian sweets. The signature habshi halwa, made with black gram flour and ghee, is a must-try for the adventurous eater.
What: Sheeren Bhavan
Where: Bazar Chitli Qabar, Jama Masjid, Old Delhi, Delhi
When: 6 am – 12 am
Cost: INR 200 for two (approx)
4. Anna Cafe (Hauz Khas):
Craving a taste of South India? Anna Madras Cafe in the posh Hauz Khas Market area. This small eatery, run by a South Indian himself, serves some of the most authentic and delicious dosas in Delhi. Thin and crispy dosas are served with a variety of fillings, and other classics like idli sambar and vada sambar are also worth a try.
What: Anna Madras Cafe
Where: A 15/A, Market Lane, Block E, Hauz Khas, New Delhi
When: 11 am – 11 pm
Cost: INR 200 for two (approx)
5. Ambersari Dhaba
Pork lovers, you will love this place. Dhaba’s mutton dishes are so rich, flavorful and satisfying that you will forget all other restaurants. A small outlet in Jalpat Nagar serves a selection of dishes prepared in desi ghee and our favorites are meat keema, chicken korma and curry keema.
What: Ambersari Dhaba
Where: C-125, Near Flyover Market, Lajpat Nagar 1, New Delhi
When: Mon, Wed-Mon: 13:30 – 19:30, 19:15 – 10:00, Tue: Closed
Cost: INR 350 for two (approx)
6. Nagaland’s Kitchen (Green Park)
For those who crave the fiery taste of Naga cuisine, look no further than Nagaland’s Kitchen. With a cozy atmosphere, decorated with dim lighting and a bamboo interior, this restaurant exudes the rustic charm of a quaint shack. Prepare to be mesmerized by the enticing aroma of northeastern herbs as you delve into dishes like Bamboo Bamboo Shoots, Naga Thali, Pork Chilli, and thukpa, all prepared with original recipes and fresh ingredients.
What: Nagaland’s Kitchen
Venue: S-2, Uphaar Cinema Complex, Green Park Extension Market, Green Park, New Delhi
When: 11:30 am – 12 midnight
Cost: INR 1,800 for two (approx)
7. Litti.In (Nizamuddin):
Start your culinary journey to Bihar with Litti.in In Nizamuddin. Small cottage-style rustic shops serve litti chokha, a traditional Bihari dish of oven-baked wheat balls filled with lentil or spiced potato filling, served with a variety of chutneys and aloo chokha, a mashed potato dish. The littis are mild but flavorful, and the chutneys add a tangy and spicy kick. Litti.In offers a contemporary twist on this classic dish, making it perfect for those who want a unique experience and taste. Besides the classic Litti and Chokha, try Litti Chicken, Dal Paratha, and Sattu Parantha.
What: Litti.In
Where: 11 A, Ground Floor, Begumpur Park, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi
Cost: INR 150 for one order (approx)
8. House #309 By Sweet Obsession (Gurgaon)
This quaint outlet in Gurgaon not only offers culinary delights but also a unique atmosphere like a European place. From the living room to the fireplace and even the home office, every corner is designed to attract attention. Indulge in exciting offerings such as Dip Platter, Thick Shakes, Coffees, Grilled Chicken, Tex Mex Pizza, and a variety of other options for a unique dining experience.
What: House #309 By Sweet Obsession
Location: Shop No 309, 3rd Floor, South Point Mall, Golf Course Rd, DLF Phase 5, Sector 53, Gurgaon
When: 11 am – 11:30 pm
Cost: INR 1,600 for two (approx)
9. Jughead’s Fast Food Corner (Uday Park)
Despite its simple name, Jughead Fast Food Corner in Uday Park dazzles visitors with its diverse menu featuring Indian, Chinese, and Western cuisines. From the comforting taste of Chicken Do Pyaza to the satisfying crunch of Veg Hakka Noodles, and even the unexpected delight of Butter Chicken Pizza, this hidden gem promises a quick and filling meal.
What: Jughead’s Fast Food Corner
Where: 1-3, Main Market, Uday Park, New Delhi
When: 12 noon – 10 pm
Cost: INR 400 for two (approx)
10. Anand Restaurant, Connaught Place
After shopping, the stomach often craves non-veg food. Anand Restaurant is there to satisfy your cravings. Do not use small and rough structures, the food served is small. This place is famous for its variety of biryani but you can also try other non-vegetarian dishes. Served on steel plates, the food here feels desi.
What: Anand Restaurant
Where: 15/96, Scindia House, Connaught Place, New Delhi
When: 10 am – 11 pm
Cost: INR 500 for two (approx)
If you call yourself a true foodie, you simply cannot miss this food store in Delhi/NCR.
